INVESTIGATING THE ARRANGEMENT AND INCLINATION OF SUBMERGED VANES FOR CONTROLLING LOCAL SCOUR UNDER VARIOUS HYDRAULIC CONDITIONS

Abstract

River channel stabilization is a critical aspect of hydraulic engineering, particularly in mitigating the adverse effects of erosion and scour around structures such as submerged vanes. This experimental study investigates the dynamics of local scour around submerged vanes under varying configurations and flow conditions. Experiments began with a single row of two rectangular vanes, with subsequent additions of rows upstream transitioning from single-row to two-row, three-row, and finally four-row configurations. Throughout these configurations, the angles of incidence and flow velocities were systematically varied to explore their effects on scour dynamics and vane performance. Results from the single-row experiments revealed that maximum scour depths were consistently larger around both vanes, with deeper scour observed at higher angles of incidence and flow velocities. As rows were added, alterations in scour patterns emerged, with downstream vanes experiencing reduced scour depths compared to single-row setups. However, the vulnerability of upstream vanes to deeper scour depths persisted. Remarkably, the middle row exhibited the least average scour depth, indicating a degree of protection conferred by its positioning between upstream and downstream rows. Conversely, the vulnerability of upstream vanes highlighted the need for targeted interventions to mitigate scourinduced risks. In the four-row experiment, a significant reduction in scour around each vane was observed compared to other configurations, emphasizing the effectiveness of multiple rows in mitigating scour. However, the vulnerability of upstream vanes to deeper scour depths persisted, underscoring the importance of understanding scour dynamics in hydraulic structures. Overall, the findings underscore the complex interplay between vane configuration, flow velocity, and scour dynamics, with implications for the design and maintenance of resilient infrastructure in riverine environments. These insights contribute to the advancement of knowledge in hydraulic engineering and provide valuable guidance for mitigating scour-induced risks around submerged vanes. Further research in this area is essential for developing robust strategies to enhance the stability and longevity of hydraulic structures in river channels.